Getting to know Melissa Q&A

“It has to be Barbra Katz-Rothman….”Birth is not only about making babies. Birth is about making mothers ~ strong, competent, capable mothers who trust themselves and know their inner strength.”

What’s the best part of your job?

“Oh, too many to list, but if I have to choose a few…..watching people turn into parents, being present for one of life’s most intense and raw moments, knowing that at times my work makes a difference in the lives of others.”

Favorite vacation spot?

“Beach…although we did go skiing a few years back and that was pretty amazing as well. I love any kind of vacation that exposes my kiddos to something new!”

How do you recharge?

“Spending time with family,(immediate and extended), cooking/baking in my kitchen, enjoying a glass of red wine (especially with loved ones), and taking bubble(actually salt) baths…to name a few. One of my favorite things to do is to be filled with inspiration is to attend conferences both in my profession and personally. I have had the privilege to attend several birth-related conferences(DONA/Lamaze) and as many faith-based conferences(Mops/Orange/Womenoffaith). I leave these learning opportunities ready to take on the world and be uplifting to those in my circles of influence.”

Favorite workshop memory?

“There are so, so many…but one of my favorites has to be the time when I was joined by a co-trainer (pictured here) during my workshop. This little one was visiting for a moment during the workshop and she came right up in the middle of my teaching, plopped down her ball and started teaching with me, to a room full of new doulas! It was priceless!”

“Oh, I love this question…it makes me think of all that is yet to come in my life! So- here goes….. learn to play piano; go back to college(midwifery maybe?); fit into a size 6(not likely ); perfect my chocolate cake ;make a mean from-scratch lemon meringue; own a beach house; raise compassionate, well rounded faith-filled kids who grow up to care for others and to make a difference in the world around them; and last but not least- be the best wife, mom, sister, daughter, doula, cousin, niece, educator and friend I can be! “